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Semicolon takes a frank but humorous, and often witty, look at the procedures and events surrounding one man’s journey through colorectal cancer. Mark takes on the serious, at times frightening, and potentially deadly issues. It will enlighten and entertain you at the same time.

Below is a short sample from the original blog upon which this book is based:

Part 1: The Good News Is…

July 26, 2009

For some time I’ve been dealing with a medical issue, which many of you already know. A number of concerned folks have been asking me what the outcome of recent doctor’s visits and tests is. I’ve talked to those closest to me (including family and friends). I’ve decided to put it into writing and let the rest of you in on what’s going on with me.

The short answer: I was recently diagnosed with colon cancer and I will be having surgery soon to remove it. I expect to be out of work for a month for recovery and then back to normal.

The longer answer is more involved and will also answer many questions people have. If you care to learn more, including events that led up to the diagnosis, my attitude about the situation, prognosis, etc., then please keep reading. If not, I understand completely. At least now you know and the mystery is revealed.

Why Write About It?

I gave a lot of thought to whether or not to write about this and share it with people via the Internet. Ultimately I felt it was a good way to tell my story one more time, to inform people who want to know more details with my having to retell it in person. I am pretty open about things and I don’t mind sharing my experience with people who sincerely want to know (rumor mongers and nosey people, not so much).

I have told the story, discussed my feelings, and discussed the possible prognosis quite a few times already. I love that people care enough to want to know but I am getting tired of telling the tale. Each time I relive some of the emotions. I am already physically fatigued at times. This gives me something to point people to who want to know while giving myself a break from talking about it.

How It Began

Around the early part of May I developed symptoms, rather suddenly (or so it seemed to me), constipation being the most obvious – and uncomfortable – one. There was also a trace amount of blood. Not enough to worry me but enough to make me think ‘Hm. That’s odd..’ I tried home treatment thinking it would clear up soon.